When the Tampa Bay Lightning recalled Cedrick Desjardins on December 20, their goal was to provide him with an opportunity to absorb the team’s day-to-day routine. It was also a perfect chance for him to work with Lightning goalie coach Frantz Jean during the AHL’s holiday break. But during Cedrick’s first day of practice, Mike Smith suffered a knee injury and was sidelined indefinitely. That allowed Desjardins to back up Dan Ellis for a few games until the stars aligned and the Montreal Canadiens strolled into town.

More >